Lebanon on Friday unveiled the “King Charles III Cedar Trail,” a reforestation and eco-tourism initiative in the Shouf Biosphere Reserve, launched in tribute to the coronation of
His Majesty King Charles III in May 2023.
British Ambassador to Lebanon Hamish Cowell and Minister of Environment Tamara El Zein presided over the inauguration ceremony, joined by Noura Jumblatt, the mayors of Ain Zahalta,
Bmahray and Mukhtara, reserve committee head Faisal Abu Ezzeddine, and staff from the biosphere reserve.
The trail features 96 newly planted cedar trees, symbolising both Lebanon’s national emblem and the enduring friendship between the United Kingdom and Lebanon. Stretching between 1,300 and 1,800 metres in elevation, the route links to the Lebanon Mountain Trail, offering hikers access to diverse ecosystems and one of the country’s richest natural landscapes.
Funded through the UK Government’s Climate Diplomacy Fund, the project underscores Britain’s support for global climate action and its commitment to bolstering Lebanon’s environmental resilience. Earlier this year, the UK backed the launch of Lebanon’s National Renewable Energy Action Plan (NREAP 2025–2030), outlining the country’s path toward expanding renewable energy in the coming decade.
The new trail builds on the legacy of the Queen Elizabeth II Cedar Trail, established in 2016 with the planting of 90 cedar saplings to mark the late monarch’s 90th birthday. In November 2022, an additional cedar tree was planted in her memory as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative.
British Ambassador Hamish Cowell said: “The King Charles III Cedar Trail is a powerful symbol of the enduring friendship between the United Kingdom and Lebanon. It reflects our shared commitment to climate action, biodiversity, and the preservation of Lebanon’s iconic natural heritage. As we look ahead, this trail stands as a living testament to our partnership and our joint efforts to build a greener, more resilient future”.
Minister of Environment Tamara El Zein said: “We are proud to partner with the United Kingdom on this meaningful initiative. The Cedar tree is not only our majestic national tree, but also a symbol of hope and steadfastness. The King Charles III Cedar Trail strengthens our environmental cooperation and highlights Lebanon’s commitment to reforestation and climate resilience. We thank the UK for its continued support”.
Head of the Reserve Committee Faisal Abu Ezzeldin said: ‘Today we inaugurate the King Charles III Trail at the Shouf Biosphere Reserve’s Ain Zhalta–Bmohray Cedar Forest entrance. This new route established with UK support complements existing trails, including the nearby Queen Elizabeth II Trail, and celebrates Lebanon’s rich natural heritage. Developed with local communities, these trails blend history and geography, enhancing the Reserve’s identity as a sanctuary of beauty, biodiversity, and peace”.